Straub Benioff Medical Center, Honolulu General Hospital - Honolulu - 1

One of the most frequently used general hospitals in Honolulu, along with Queen's Medical Center, is the Straub Benioff Medical Center.

It began in 1921 when Dr. George F. Straub opened Honolulu's first group practice, 'The Clinic,' and has been a cornerstone of Oahu's healthcare for over 100 years.

The main facility is located at 888 South King Street, close to downtown Honolulu rather than Waikiki, making it a regular choice for local workers and nearby residents. Recently, the name was changed to 'Straub Benioff Medical Center' following a large donation from Marc Benioff and his wife.

Straub is one of four hospitals in the Hawaii Pacific Health system. Together with Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children, Pali Momi Medical Center, and Wilcox Medical Center in Kauai, it forms a healthcare network across the state of Hawaii.

The facility has 159 beds and nearly 400 staff and contracted physicians covering over 32 specialties. It offers a comprehensive range of services including internal medicine, surgery, orthopedics, cardiology, oncology, women's health, neurology, gastroenterology, and vascular surgery.

Straub's true strength lies elsewhere. It is the only hospital in the entire Pacific region with a multi-disciplinary burn treatment center. This means it serves as a hub for severe burn patients from Hawaii and neighboring Pacific islands. It also has a long history of introducing new technologies to Hawaii, such as minimally invasive heart surgery, total joint replacement, and arthroscopic knee surgery.

Recognized by Healthgrades as being in the top 10 percent in the U.S. for stroke care for three consecutive years, it has also consistently received awards in gastrointestinal surgery and general surgery. The Straub Cancer Center, which handles cancer care, integrates chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, and has received a 'High Performing' rating from U.S. News for colorectal surgery and leukemia/lymphoma.

Straub Benioff Medical Center, Honolulu General Hospital - Honolulu - 2

A view of the Straub Benioff Medical Center.

The Straub Benioff Medical Center is currently undergoing major redevelopment and renovation.

This project aims to modernize the old hospital facilities to meet contemporary healthcare standards, with patient wards, treatment areas, and the latest medical equipment being upgraded in phases. As the demand for healthcare in Hawaii continues to grow, the hospital is also pursuing long-term expansion and modernization of its facilities.

The main phone number is 808-522-4000, and the emergency room operates 24 hours. They accept over 150 insurance plans, including Medicare and some international insurance, making it accessible for short-term visitors. For Korean immigrants unfamiliar with the U.S. healthcare system, it is advisable to first learn the process of selecting a primary care physician (PCP) after enrolling in insurance and obtaining referrals when specialist care is needed.

Straub has a well-organized online appointment system and patient portal where patients can check their medical records and prescriptions. Short-term visitors staying in Waikiki can also take advantage of the 'Doctors on Call' service available at major hotels like Sheraton Waikiki and Hilton Hawaiian Village to receive care from Straub's medical staff.